Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

After rupturing a disk in my spine in 2016, I plan to complete my rehabilitation by cycling to Paris with my colleagues from Amgen. Although initially my injury was quite debilitating I consider myself lucky that my pain was benign.

I recall, during my nursing days, admitting a gentleman with persistent back pain who was eventually diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. I quickly learned this was a cancer of the white blood cells, which accumulates in the bones. It causes pain and anaemia and hinders the body's ability to stop infection and bleeding. 

With treatment patients with myeloma typically go through periods of health and relapse. My patient was no exception and cycled in and out of hospital over many months. I grew to know the family very well and witnessed first-hand their journey through anguish and hope. I was privileged to be with them when their battle was lost and will never forget the impact myeloma had on their lives. They are a constant reminder to me that, despite improvements in treatment, myeloma remains an incurable disease.

Although the average life expectancy is approximately 4 years, many patients soldier on to live 20 years or more. This is largely due to improvements in treatment through research & development, which is why charities such as Myeloma UK warrant our continued support.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Many thanks for your help, encouragement and generosity!

Paul